Co-directors Adam Ciralsky and Subrata De’s fascinating documentary “Take No Prisoners” dives into the high stakes world of hostage negotiations and prisoner swaps, giving a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it actually takes to bring wrongfully detained Americans home. This is a film that’s filled with real-life tension, but one that also delivers a deeply emotional story.
The documentary follows the case of Eyvin Hernandez, a Los Angeles public defender who ends up imprisoned in Venezuela’s notorious “House of Dreams” after what was supposed to be a simple vacation to Colombia. As his family fights tirelessly to get him back, we see the intense work of U.S. hostage negotiator Roger Carstens, who leads the charge in securing Eyvin’s release. From tense White House meetings to the chaotic streets of Caracas, the film gives an up-close look at the tough, complicated, and often frustrating world of hostage diplomacy. It’s an intimately personal and riveting look at a highly risky race against time.
What makes the documentary so powerful is how it balances the political with the personal. On one hand, it lays out the mechanics of these high-risk negotiations in a way that’s fascinating to watch. But at its core, it presents a story about a family’s love and determination, the emotional toll of waiting for answers, and the hope that keeps them going. Through footage and interviews, De and Ciralsky capture what it must feel like to be in a similar situation, and it’s very effective.
The film is packed with suspense in the form of setbacks and small victories that build toward a rare and satisfying win (because in this line of work, happy endings don’t come often). And spoiler alert: this is one of the positive outcomes. There are also some interesting topics raised that demand further debate, like the idea that some hostages take precedence over others due to their celebrity or “big-name” status, the role of government in diplomatic efforts, and the human cost of serious political games.
Gripping, emotional, and eye-opening, “Take No Prisoners” is comprehensive in the exploration of its topic. This is a film for anyone interested in international politics, hostage negotiations, or just a really solid factual thriller.
By: Louisa Moore
Screen Zealots 